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Can a Snake Be an Emotional Support Animal?

Yes, a snake can be an emotional support animal. Although they aren’t as common as dogs or cats, snakes can offer emotional comfort and companionship. To make your snake an ESA, you’ll need a letter from a licensed mental health professional.
Robert Clendenin MD
Medically Reviewed by Robert Clendenin, MD

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When discussing which type of animal can become an emotional support animal, the first one that often comes to mind is a dog. But what if I told you that emotional support doesn’t have to come in the form of a wagging tail and fluffy fur? In fact, some people are finding comfort and companionship in creatures that might surprise you—like snakes! Yes, snakes. While they might not be the first choice for everyone, these companions are slowly gaining popularity as unconventional yet effective emotional support animals.
So, can a snake really provide the emotional connection you need? Let’s dive in and explore the world of snakes as ESAs.

Snake as Emotional Support Animal

Key Points

  • A snake can be an ESA: Any animal, including snakes, can be an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) if it provides comfort and emotional relief to its owner.
  • No specific training required: Emotional support snakes do not need to undergo training to perform specific tasks. A snake’s mere presence can help alleviate symptoms of emotional or mental conditions.
  • ESA letter requirement: To have your emotional support animal snake, you must obtain an ESA letter from a licensed healthcare professional.
  • Legal protections: Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals with an emotional support snake are entitled to live with their pet in housing that normally prohibits animals without being charged extra fees.
  • Limited travel accommodations: Under current regulations, airlines are not required to accommodate ESAs, making it challenging to bring your emotional support snake on flights.
  • How to choose a snake for an ESA? Look for domesticated snakes like the Ball Python, Corn Snake, and Kingsnake. They are calm and easy to maintain.
Interesting Fact Unlike humans and many other animals, snakes lack eyelids. Instead, they have a clear scale called a spectacle that covers their eyes.

Can Snakes Qualify as Emotional Support Animals?

While less common than dogs or cats, snakes can indeed qualify as emotional support animals. Their unique nature and quiet companionship can provide comfort and solace for individuals with specific emotional needs. It’s not required, but the snake should be defanged and non-venomous for safety reasons. Moreover, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of a snake as an ESA will depend on the individual’s relationship with the animal and local regulations.
Legitimate ESA Letter For Snake From Trusted Therapists

What Are the Benefits of Having a Snake as an Emotional Support Animal?

Here are some benefits of having an emotional support snake that shows why they make wonderful companions:

  • Hypoallergenic: For individuals with allergies, owning a furry pet may not be an option. That’s where the emotional support animal snake comes in! Being hypoallergenic, snakes are far less likely to trigger allergic reactions compared to pets with fur or dander. This makes them a great alternative for those who want an ESA without allergy concerns.
  • Low Maintenance: Emotional support snakes are incredibly low-maintenance compared to traditional ESAs like dogs or cats. They don’t need daily walks or constant attention, making them ideal for people who need a companion that requires little upkeep but can still provide comfort when needed.
  • Minimal Space Requirements: Unlike dogs and cats that need room to roam, snakes are perfectly content in their enclosures. An ESA snake requires a custom tank, which takes up far less space than the living area other pets need. The size of the enclosure depends on the snake’s size, but it’s generally comparable to the space required for an aquarium.
  • Odor-Free: If you’re sensitive to smells, a snake might be your perfect ESA. Since they don’t have fur, they produce significantly less odor than many other pets. You won’t have to worry about unpleasant smells filling your home, making snakes an odor-free option for those looking for a clean, fuss-free companion.
  • Quiet Companionship: Emotional support animal snakes are often calm and quiet, offering a sense of peace that can be beneficial for individuals seeking a low-key companion. Their serene presence can help reduce stress and anxiety, providing a soothing influence in a busy or chaotic environment.
  • Long Lifespan: Many snake species have long lifespans, often ranging from 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the species. This longevity can provide long-term companionship and stability for individuals seeking a reliable ESA.
  • Minimal Disruption: Snakes are low-key and do not disrupt daily routines. They don’t require training, playtime, or frequent trips outside, which can be especially beneficial for people with busy schedules or mobility issues.
Interesting Fact The Black Racer, a non-venomous snake, is one of the fastest in the USA, capable of reaching speeds of up to 4 miles per hour.

What Are The Challenges of Making Snakes An Emotional Support Animal?

You can make your snake an emotional support animal, but several challenges must be considered. Here are some challenges you might face with having a snake as an ESA:

  • Limited Recognition: Snakes are not as commonly accepted as emotional support animals as dogs and cats. This limited recognition can affect the ability to have them accompany you in various situations where emotional support animals are generally allowed.
  • Negative Reputation: Snakes often evoke fear or discomfort due to their reputation, which can make it difficult to enjoy public spaces or interact with others who are uneasy around them.
  • Hard to Adopt in Home Environment: Unlike more traditional pets, snakes are wild animals that thrive in their natural habitats rather than in our homes. They require environments where they can fully submerge and explore, which can be hard to replicate indoors.
  • Travel Limitations: While some airlines allow emotional support animals, they typically only include dogs. This restriction can make air travel with your snake as an ESA particularly difficult.
  • Unique Care Needs: Snakes have specific care requirements, including proper temperature, humidity, and enclosure setup. Handling them can be challenging, and ensuring their well-being requires a significant commitment.
  • Bonding and Accessibility: Snakes do not engage in typical bonding activities like cuddling or playing, which can affect the emotional connection between you and your snake.
Interesting Fact Snake venom is not uniform; it can vary widely, even within a single species.

Are There Specific Breeds of Snakes That Are Better Suited to Be ESAs?

There aren’t specific breeds of snakes that are inherently better suited to be Emotional Support Animals (ESAs), as the effectiveness of a snake as an ESA depends more on the individual snake’s temperament and how it meets the owner’s emotional needs. However, certain factors can influence a snake’s suitability. Snakes with a calm and docile nature are generally preferred, as they offer a more enjoyable and stress-free interaction. Additionally, snakes with simpler care requirements and fewer health issues are ideal, as they ensure a more reliable and low-maintenance companion. Moreover, it is good to avoid venomous snakes and choose a domesticated snake. Venomous snakes can be risky and require specialized care, adding stress. Domesticated snakes are generally calmer, more predictable, and better suited for companionship.

Domesticated Snakes in The USA

  • Ball Python (Python regius)
  • Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
  • Kingsnake (Lampropeltis spp.)
  • Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
  • Garter Snake (Thamnophis spp.)
  • Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata)
  • Hognose Snake (Heterodon)

Venomous Snakes in The USA

  • Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus)
  • Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)
  • Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
  • Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus)
  • Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
  • Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius)
  • Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes)
  • Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus)
Interesting Fact The Eastern Hognose Snake is known for its dramatic display of playing dead. When threatened, it will roll onto its back, open its mouth, and emit a foul-smelling musk to deter predators.

Do I Need Special Certification for My Snake to Be an ESA?

No, you just need an ESA letter from a licensed healthcare professional. The ESA letter states that you have a mental health condition and that your snake provides essential emotional support that alleviates symptoms of your condition.
It’s important to note that while the ESA letter is crucial, there are no official certifications or registrations for ESAs. The letter is the official document for your snake’s status as an ESA, allowing you to access certain legal protections under the Fair Housing Act.

How Can I Get an ESA Letter For My Snake?

You need to consult with a licensed healthcare professional. They will evaluate your mental or emotional health and determine if your snake provides the necessary emotional support. If they conclude that you would benefit from an Emotional Support Animal, they will issue an ESA letter. It’s important to ensure that the letter is from a legitimate professional to avoid any issues with landlords.

Official ESA Letter For Snake From Trusted Therapists

What Are The Legal Protections For ESA Snakes?

ESA snakes are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), a federal law that protects individuals with Emotional Support Animals, including snakes, in housing situations. Under the FHA:

  • Landlords and housing providers cannot deny housing to tenants with a valid ESA letter, even if the building has a “no pets” policy.
  • Landlords cannot charge additional pet fees or deposits for ESAs, but tenants are still responsible for any damage caused by the animal.
  • The tenant must provide an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional that confirms their need for emotional support, and the letter must specify how the ESA alleviates the symptoms of a diagnosed mental health condition.
  • The housing provider may request documentation (the ESA letter) but cannot ask for detailed medical records.

In addition to federal law, some states and cities may have their own regulations concerning ESAs. It’s always a good idea to verify local laws to ensure compliance when housing or traveling with an ESA snake. It’s important to communicate clearly with landlords, especially for less common pets like snakes.

Interesting Fact The oldest known fossil of a snake dates back about 100 million years, showing that snakes have been around since the time of the dinosaurs.

Can The Landlord Restrict My ESA Snake?

Although your ESA snake is protected under the Fair Housing Act, a landlord may still restrict it if it poses a legitimate threat to the health or safety of others. If the snake is deemed dangerous or if its presence could cause significant property damage, the landlord may have grounds to deny the accommodation. However, they cannot deny your ESA snake simply based on personal preferences or a general fear of snakes.

What Is the Cost of Getting an ESA Snake?

The cost of getting an ESA snake can vary widely depending on several factors. The price of a snake can range from $50 to $350, depending on the species, size, and breed. Moreover, setting up a proper habitat for your snake includes costs for a terrarium or enclosure, heating elements, lighting, substrate, water dishes, and decor. This can range from $100 to $300 or more. You must also obtain an ESA letter for your snake, which typically costs between $180 to $220.

How Do I Train or Bond With a Snake As An ESA?

No emotional support animals, including snakes, need to be trained. The comfort and companionship that the snake offers are what qualify it as an ESA, making it a valuable source of emotional support simply by being there for its owner. Their primary role is to provide emotional relief and help alleviate symptoms of mental or emotional conditions through their presence and connection with the owner. One of the best ways to bond with your snake is through regular, gentle handling. Start slowly, allowing your snake to get used to your scent and presence. Hold them for short periods at first, then gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable. Be sure to support the snake’s body and avoid sudden movements, which can make them feel threatened.

How To Prepare Your Home For ESA Snakes?

Before bringing a snake home, get a glass terrarium or enclosure, with the size depending on the snake species. Ensure the enclosure is escape-proof and has enough space for the snake to move around. Snakes require a controlled climate to stay healthy, so install a heating pad or lamp to create a temperature gradient within the enclosure, allowing the snake to regulate its body temperature. Most snakes thrive in temperatures between 75-90°F. Snakes also need hiding places to feel safe and secure, so include rocks, hollow logs, or store-bought hides in the enclosure to create secluded areas where the snake can retreat.
Interesting Fact The USA is home to over 50 different species of snakes, ranging from harmless garter snakes to the venomous rattlesnakes and copperheads.

How Do You Care for Your ESA Snake?

Snakes usually eat frozen-thawed rodents, but the size of the prey should match the snake’s size. Feed your snake once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the species and age. Make sure to follow a feeding schedule and avoid overfeeding. Snakes shed their skin regularly as they grow. During this period, their eyes may become cloudy, and their activity might decrease. Ensure proper humidity and provide a rough surface, like a branch, to help the snake shed more easily.

Bottom Line

A snake can be an emotional support animal, but it’s important to understand that they differ greatly from traditional ESAs like dogs or cats. While they offer calm companionship and can be low-maintenance, they lack the interactive and affectionate nature of other animals. To make your snake an ESA, you need to consult a licensed healthcare professional and obtain an ESA letter. After obtaining it, you will gain certain rights under the FHA, such as living with your ESA snake without additional fees.

Interesting Fact Snakes use their tongues to smell rather than their nostrils. While they do have nostrils, these are not used for detecting scents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Take My Snake On A Plane As An ESA?

While the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) previously required airlines to accommodate ESAs, as of 2021, airlines are no longer obligated to recognize them. Some airlines still allow ESAs, but this is typically limited to dogs and cats. Therefore, finding accommodations for an emotional support snake on the plane can be challenging.

How Do I Register A Snake As An Emotional Support Animal?

You don’t need to register your snake as an ESA. All you need is an ESA letter from a licensed healthcare professional confirming your need for the snake to manage your mental health conditions.

Do I Need An Emotional Support Snake Vest For My ESA Snake?

No, a vest is not required. The only requirement for your snake to be recognized as an ESA is a valid ESA letter. Some owners may opt to use a vest for convenience, but it’s not mandatory.

Are Snakes Good Emotional Support Animals?

Snakes can be good ESAs, but they are not as affectionate or interactive as dogs or cats. They provide calm, quiet companionship and require little maintenance, making them suitable for individuals seeking a less demanding pet.

Can A Python Snake Be An Emotional Support Animal?

Yes, a python can be an ESA. Though less common than other animals, any species that provides emotional support can be an ESA, as long as you have a valid ESA letter.

Can A Snake Be A Service Animal?

No, snakes cannot be service animals. Service animals are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, which snakes are not equipped to do. They do not have the capability to be trained for tasks such as guiding the visually impaired, alerting to medical conditions, or assisting with mobility, which are essential roles for service animals.

Do I Need A Letter From A Therapist To Have A Snake As An ESA?

To officially designate your snake as an ESA, you’ll typically need a letter from a licensed mental health professional. This letter must confirm your need for emotional support and the role the snake plays in your mental health.

Can I Bring My Snake On Airplanes Or Into Rental Housing With ESA Status?

Possibly, but there may be restrictions. While ESAs are protected under the FHA for housing, airlines may have their own rules, especially regarding exotic animals like snakes. Always check specific airline or housing policies.

Do Snakes Provide The Same Emotional Support As Traditional Esas Like Dogs Or Cats?

Snakes can provide emotional support, though it may be different from the support offered by dogs or cats. Each individual’s experience varies depending on their personal needs and the companionship provided by their ESA.

Are There Legal Restrictions On Owning A Snake As An ESA?

Yes, local, state, and federal laws may have restrictions regarding ESA ownership or certain snake species. Always check applicable laws to ensure compliance.

Can I Take My ESA Snake To Public Places?

Generally, no. While some places may allow ESAs, many public establishments are not required to accommodate exotic animals like snakes. It’s important to check with the venue beforehand.

Are Snakes As Dangerous As ESAs?

Snakes are generally not dangerous when handled properly, but they do require careful care and handling to ensure safety.

What Should I Consider Before Adopting A Snake As My ESA?

Ensure the snake has a calm temperament that is suitable for emotional support, and be ready to meet its specific care requirements, such as providing proper housing, feeding, and handling. Moreover, research any legal restrictions on owning snakes as ESAs in your area. Reflect on whether you can form a strong emotional bond with a snake, and seek advice from a veterinarian for guidance on making the best decision.

Can a Rattlesnake Be an Emotional Support Animal?

No, rattlesnakes are venomous, which makes them unsafe as emotional support animals. ESA pets should provide comfort without posing a risk to their owners or others. Non-venomous snake species are better suited for this role.

Post Author

Patricia Thompson

Prince Sharma

Prince Sharma is a content manager with a passion for reading, design, and cats. When he's not working, he enjoys discovering new design trends or relaxing with a good book and his furry friends

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